Word of the Day: Amathaphobia

Amathaphobia (not to be confused with math phobia) is the abnormal fear of dust.

Why would anybody fear dust?

Well… This phobia doesn’t seem so abnormal when you consider what’s inside dust…

Although dust mites are invisible to the human eye, they’re still too heavy to become airborne for long periods of time. Their fecal pellets, however, are much smaller and lighter; these fecal pellets become airborne when you walk across carpet or roll over in bed – and it is these particles that cause allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and eczema.

• Encase your mattress and pillows with Allergy Armorâ„¢ dust mite bedding.
• Vacuum at least twice a week with a HEPA vacuum cleaner.
• Monitor your humidity and use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air. Dust mites require a humid environment for survival. Keep the relative humidity in your home below 50% to control the dust mite population.
• Run an air purifier to eliminate airborne dust and allergens.